In a concerted effort to bring scientific information and technological advancements closer to the people, the Department of Science and Technology Regional Office No. 1 (DOST-1) collaborated with DZAG Radyo Pilipinas Agoo to present the 1st Episode of the radio program titled “Tekno Presyensya: Syensya ken Teknolohiya para kadagiti Umili” on 11 January 2024. The event took place via the Zoom platform and Facebook Live and was broadcast live on DZAG Radyo Pilipinas Agoo FM radio.
The episode centered around the celebration of the 2024 National Time Consciousness Week, themed “G na G, Oras Pinas para sa Bagong Pilipinas”, featuring Engr. Mario M. Raymundo, Chief of the Astronomical Publication and Planetarium Unit of DOST-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA). This advocacy is covered by Republic Act 10535.
Engr. Raymundo initiated the discussion by discussing Philippine Standard Time laws, including Presidential Decrees and Republic Acts. He showcased the advanced timekeeping equipment utilized by PAGASA, as the designated official timekeeper in the country, like the Hewlett-Packard 5071 A (Cesium Clock) and Microsemi S600 (Rubidium Clock) and highlighting their remarkable accuracies.
The discourse also covered the International Date Line (IDL) and distinctions between International Atomic Time (TAI), Universal Time (UT or UTI), Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and Philippine Standard Time (PhST or PHT). Emphasizing the significance of standard time, Engr. Raymundo highlighted its role in facilitating smooth operations across various sectors, from business and banking to legal processes and education.
Engr. Raymundo also introduced the timeless sundial as a device that reflects the time based on the shadows cast by the sun. Philippine sundials are strategically located in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, UP Diliman, Quezon City, and PMA Baguio City.
In closing, Engr. Mario underscored that “Time is important because it is the one thing we can never get back. Once it’s gone, it’s gone, and we can never get it back. This powerful message emphasizes the deep importance of time in our lives.”
Allan Mauro V. Marfal, Information Officer III of the DOST-Science & Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), stressed that the observance of time consciousness extends beyond a week, urging continuous awareness throughout the year.
They emphasized the importance of respecting and valuing each other’s time for individual and collective productivity. DOST-STII, under the law, is designated to promote the Philippine Standard Time advocacy and assist DOST-PAGASA in other initiatives to make people aware and appreciate the “new Pilipino time”.
Furthermore, Marfal encouraged youth involvement in promoting the significance and value of time, urging them to be active and productive across various platforms, including social media. The initiative seeks to instill a sense of responsibility and efficiency in the younger generation, ensuring that they recognize the value of time in shaping a progressive and dynamic society.
